A Union County native and retired DEA agent has been awarded the South Carolina Sheriff's Association's Legion of Honor and Outstanding Commendation Medal.

Dr. Dennis Craig served as an undercover narcotics agent for the Richland County Sheriff's Office from 1970-79 before working for the South Carolina Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs and the US Drug Enforecement Administration. Prior to entering law enforcement, Craig served in the 101st Army Airborne Division in Vietnam. He is the son of Decie Craig and the late Roger Craig and attended Union High School.

When it bestowed the awards on Craig in July, the SCSA, in the fall edition of its magazine, cited a case two years into his service with the Richland County Sheriff's Office in which he was wounded as an example of his dedication to law enforcement.

The incident occurred in 1972 when Craig — while working undercover — was approached by a man who offered to take him to a house where he could buy heroin.

As Craig drove them to the supposed drug house, the man's behavior made him suspicious and he began to drive toward the sheriff's office on Huger Street. It was then the man pulled a gun and tried to rob Craig who fought back while maintaing control of the car.

Despite Craig identifying himself as a deputy, the assailant shot him in the chest after the car had come to a stop. Craig managed to pull his service revolver and shoot his attacker in the stomach. After the assailant fled, Craig was able to reach the lobby of the sheriff's office where he collapsed.

His assailant was caught a short time later and Craig himself eventually returned to his duties after recuperating from his wound.

The SCSA stated Craig “should be commended for his outstanding service to the citizens of Richland County during this incident and also his service to our state and country over the many years of his civil service . . . He exemplifies everything a person should strive to be — dedicated and professional — especially in the face of danger.”

Craig would be shot two more times in the line of duty during his nearly 30-year career in law enforcement.

Since retiring, Craig, who holds a doctorate in criminal justice, has taught at the high school and college levels. He and his wife Debbie now live in Canton, Ga.

While honored to receive the awards from the SCSA, Craig said he feels all the law enforcement officers he worked with over the years are equally deserving.

He said one of the greatest honors he has received was when young people he has helped keep out of trouble thank him for the positive impact he had on their lives.